News: Developer Refutes Allegations of Involvement at Temple Riot

Nov 27, 2018

Property developer One City Development Sdn Bhd denied allegations that it had instigated the violent clashes at the Sri Maha Mariamman Hindu temple in USJ 25, Putra Heights, saying that creating unnecessary tension would not be to its advantage, reported Malay Mail.

“Allegations that One City orchestrated the said incident are malicious lies and we condemn any acts of violence or any insinuations that it would resort to such despicable acts,” it said.

The company noted that the relocation of the 140-year-old temple had already been decided in courts four years ago.

“Those who have been following the issue can attest to the fact that One City has postponed the execution of the writ of possession several times, and tried its best to ensure that peace is maintained during the execution process.”

It explained that it would not be to the advantage of the company to “create an atmosphere of unease, unnecessary tension or aggravation on its own land as claimed as it would defeat the purpose of having gone through a lengthy legal process”.

With this, the company intends to take legal action against those making defamatory statements against it over the temple.

Based on a consent judgment on 11 March 2014, the Hindu temple was to have been relocated on 22 November.

Violence broke out early Monday (26 November) over the temple relocation, which saw several vehicles being set on fire.

Video clips of the scuffle quickly spread on social media.

The roads leading to the temple have closed off by the police, while two men have since been arrested for their alleged involvement in the incident.